Not Miss Daisy, or Missing Daisy, but Missy and Daisy.
These are my daughters' (Tenpin) two dogs in Brisbane Oz. Other than us, she is the only member of the family to have dogs. Neither my oldest, nor my youngest, have any interest in dogs whatsoever.
If Billy were to go before me (which is unlikely), I wouldn't have another dog. I might have a cat around the house, but a dog requires so much attention and exercise.
My daughter has two boys, both of whom do their share of walks, etc. I really believe that for a boy to have a dog is a very important part of his education. It teaches how to care for others without questioning, and to understand that they rely on us 100%; and we need to be there whenever required. I hope I'm not being sexist if I say that empathy and caring usually come naturally to girls.
I, personally, had my first dog when I was about 21/22. Hamlet was a small-medium sized, black-n-tan, mutt, who had cost the original owner about 50p at Leeds Market. He was the most delightful dog imaginable.
We become slaves to our dogs, and often treat them better that we treat ourselves; but I, for one, am quite happy with that, and am grateful for all the pleasure they bring. I often prefer them to many humans.
Tenpin's dogs are not related. It's just by chance that the latest pup rather resembles the older one. They adore each other!
32 comments:
I agree that children should have dogs to grow up with where possible. Responsibility, empathy, fun and unconditional love.
They look great mates.
It probably teaches them more about life than anything.
They almost look like mother and daughter.
I love the sweet look of the older dog the smile happy face with the ears back to help with the smile. So adorable.
I don't know what I'd do without animals around. I find them relaxing and for the most part affectionate.
The new pup only arrived a couple of weeks ago, and already they are best friends. Thank goodness.
I think they also keep us healthy, both mentally and physically.
Lovely narrative, Cro. That neither of your sons has any interest in dogs made me smile. For reasons not quite clear, even to me.
The one thing I find pretty unnerving about dogs (as opposed to cats) that they have those pleading eyes. They always appear to expect something from you, want something. Maybe that's just in my imagination. And they always seem to be so dead grateful for any attention which, frankly, I find pathetic and draining. Give me a cat anytime. I don't want to be a pack leader. Dog lovers, don't get me wrong, I like dogs, particularly big ones, working dogs like Alsations (German Shepherd).
Whilst I agree that pets do teach us, and children, a lot I don't like the "unconditional" bit (ref Andrew's comment). To keep a dog because it loves you "unconditionally"? Nah. More than once in my life, I have encountered dogs shabbily treated by their owners, yet the dogs "loved" them "unconditionally" if cowering. That's Stockholm Syndrome.
However, yes, if your kid wants a pet let them have one. Each species will teach them something else. When I was four I kept snails. They teach you patience. And how to cope with the inevitable disappointments in life.
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I'm sure that dogs know that they rely on us for everything; cats don't, they'd be perfectly OK alone. I grew-up with cats, and we simply lived side-by-side.
Thats a lovely photo.I much prefer animals to a lot of humans too!xx
Much nicer, and less complicated, all round.
Growing up, my family never had a dog. We had cats. Much lower maintenance and they tend to last longer too. Barking dogs in cities are a pain in the neck.
Beautiful dogs.
Your daughter has two great dogs. I'm particularly fond of the Bernese Mountain dog. Dogs are true family members and I will never be without a dog. Soon I will be adding a Maine Coon cat to the menagerie.
I was the same, although we lived out in the countryside.
Both rescue dogs, I believe.
Billy is my fourth dog, and all four have been wonderful. Such good company.
I detected a hint of 'conflict', and I don't do conflict.
Happy future birthday... you will be the same age as me!
Maine Coon cats are fabulous creatures ... I had one and she was so personable, a talker, silkiest fur ... I absolutely loved her!
Oh, Cro... I love both dogs and cats... but I have to say that although I understand they are different, both can be affectionate... or not, companionable... or not. We have had cats that were extremely dependent and loving - never wanting to leave your side. Yes, they are more independent than dogs in general. But that doesn't mean they don't care for you. A cat can be a source of comfort (as can a dog). Animals seem to sense when you're hurting or need comfort. Sometimes it seems that people don't seem to realize that animals (like people) have their own personalities, their own likes and dislikes - some like affection, some don't, some are smart, some not so much. I have a B.S. in Animal Science and have worked alongside Vets for years, and I agree that sometimes I would choose dogs and cats over people too.
I really like Rian's comment! I've had somewhat independent dogs, like my sweet Ginger who could be standoffish with strangers and people she didn't know well, but was mannerly and quietly affectionate with the humans she loved. Right now there's a cat that runs to us to be petted and loved on every day (twice a day) when we're out walking. He will roll over to get belly rubs and would follow us home in an instant if we let him. Cats and dogs are all individuals, not one size fits all. :)
Your daughter's two pups look like good ones! Sweet faces!
Dogs teach so many things, entertain. We are all lucky to have at least one, if you do.
What sweet faces!
All our dogs and cats have had totally different characters; some more affectionate than others. Our Labrador 'Monty' was very independent, and our current dog 'Billy' very loving on his own terms.
All the cats around us run as soon as they see us coming. I think they're all semi-wild, and only see humans as a source of food.
Yes, we have a smallish Border Collie called Billy. He keeps us very busy.
Beautiful dogs. I would have adopted them too.
Loved the bit about the snails and life's disappointments. Today's "woke" community should keep snails.
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